Oregon Registered Nurse (RN) Licensing Guide
License by Exam
Licensure by Examination is the most common way to obtain a nursing license in Oregon. This process is for individuals who have completed their nursing education and are ready to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
To begin, you must:
- Submit an application to the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN) along with your official transcripts from your nursing program.
- If approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) from Pearson VUE, which allows you to schedule your NCLEX exam. It's important to prepare for this exam by studying and reviewing all relevant material.
Once you pass the NCLEX, you must:
- Apply for licensure through the OSBN.
- You'll need to provide additional documentation such as proof of citizenship or legal residency, fingerprinting for a background check.
- Pay applicable fees.
After completing these steps successfully, congratulations! You will be issued a nursing license in Oregon that allows you to practice as a registered nurse within the state.
License by Endorsement
Licensure by endorsement is a pathway for experienced nurses who hold an active nursing license in another state to obtain a nursing license in Oregon. This process allows nurses to transfer their existing credentials and qualifications without having to retake the entire licensing examination.
To apply for licensure by endorsement, you must:
- Submit several documents to the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN). These include a completed application form, verification of your original nursing education program, and proof of your current license in good standing from another state.
- Additionally, you may need to provide official transcripts and complete fingerprinting for a criminal background check.
Once your application is received and reviewed by the OSBN, they will determine if you meet all the requirements for endorsement. If approved, you will be issued an Oregon nursing license.
Getting a Multi-state (Compact) License
Oregon is not currently a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses cannot practice in Oregon using a multistate (compact) license. Travel nurses must apply for and receive an Oregon-issued nursing license before beginning practice.
Getting a Temporary License
If you're a nurse looking to work in Oregon on a temporary basis, the state offers a temporary licensing option that allows you to practice while completing the licensure process. Temporary licensing is ideal for those who need to start working quickly or are awaiting their permanent license.
To obtain a temporary nursing license in Oregon, there are specific requirements and steps you must follow. First, you'll need to:
- Submit an application along with all required documents, such as verification of your current out-of-state nursing license and proof of your education.
Once your application is received and approved by the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN), they will issue you a temporary license. This license grants you permission to practice nursing within the state for up to 90 days.
During this time, it's crucial that you complete any additional requirements needed for permanent licensure, such as fingerprinting and background checks. It's important not to delay in fulfilling these requirements since failure to do so may result in revocation of your temporary license.
For more information about obtaining a temporary nursing license in Oregon or questions regarding the licensure process overall, reach out directly to the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN). They have knowledgeable staff ready to assist applicants throughout every step.
Renewing your License
Renewing your nursing license in Oregon is an essential step to maintaining your professional status and ensuring you can continue practicing as a nurse. The Oregon State Board of Nursing requires all nurses to renew their licenses every two years. Licenses expire the day before the nurse's birthday in even or odd years depending on birth year.
The process for license renewal is relatively straightforward. Nurses are notified by mail or email at least 60 days before their license expiration date, providing them with instructions on how to renew online through the Oregon License eXpress (OLX) system.
To renew your nursing license you will need to:
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the required fee.
- You may also be required to provide proof of continuing education credits, depending on your specific situation.
- Renewal requires:
- 400 practice hours in past 2 years; OR
- 600 hours in past 3 years + 20 CE hours; OR
- 800 hours in past 4 years + 30 CE hours.
- Additionally, 1-hour pain management and 2 hours cultural competency CE at every renewal is also required.
- Renewal requires:
Contact Info
17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Road
Portland, OR 97224-7012
(971) 673-0685
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or professional advice. Wanderly strives to keep this information up to date but does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness as nursing licensure requirements, renewal cycles, fees, and continuing education obligations vary by state and are subject to change without notice. Nurses are strongly encouraged to visit their state's official nursing board website or contact the board directly to confirm current requirements prior to submitting any application.
